Roof to be removed for extra floor on apartment blocks in Portlaoise

Laois County Council has approved plans to remove two apartment block roofs and add an extra storey to create 12 new one bedroom apartments. 

Fimaglass Limited was granted permission for the work on the blocks in Portlaoise subject to 12 conditions.

St Michael’s Apartment Block and St. Helena’s Apartment Blocks in Newpark, Portlaoise, currently have ten one and two bedroom apartments. The latest plan would see the blocks extended and remodeled to provide a total of 12 one bed apartments.  

They applied for “permission to carry out development which will consist of permission to extend and renovate St. Michael’s and St. Helena’s apartment blocks. The amendments will include removal of roof on both blocks, additional storey with flat roof, amendments to elevations, amendments to internal layouts to provide 12 no. x 1-bed apartments, new bin and bike store and all associated site works”. 

According to documentation submitted on behalf of Fimaglass,  “given the location of the units within a predominantly 3/4 bedroom house mix, the one bedrooms in this area allows for a size down in the area for current homeowners who may want to allow their children the opportunity to raise their family in the family home while they remain in the area. Vis-versa it allows for children born and reared in the Newpark estate the opportunity to remain in the estate and get their foot on the property ladder.”

They state that: “A growing demographic trend indicates an increased need for one bedroom units, especially among young professionals, students, and single person households. Providing a range of one-bedroom units can address immediate housing demands and contribute to the overall housing stock in the county.” 

Laois County Council approved the plans subject to 12 conditions on December 10, 2025.